Disturbed932

So I know that an BA has more electives and a foreign language requirement to it, however the BS degree doesn't seem to have a foreign language requirement event youth it's listed under most of the "recommended" academic plans. I just wanted to confirms whether a BS degree requires a foreign language or if it's just "recommended by advisers", etc.

willow82

BS does not require foreign language. I specifically chose a BS in Psych as opposed to a BS because I did not want to take any more Spanish.

willow82

As opposed to a BA*

cosmicfish

There is a language requirement with ALL BA degrees, but BS degrees only include language when it is a core part of the degree. The essential difference between BA and BS degrees at Penn State is that a BA degree (when compared to the BS) gives you a broader education at the cost of the specialization in your field. Most places that hire don't care which you get, but I have heard that many grad programs prefer the more rigorous BS degree.

DJpsu2015

It honestly just depends on what kind of education you want out of it. I'm pretty sure A BS would require more science-related courses, so if that is your thing and plan on doing something with it/help you in your future career, then go for it. I, for one, HATE science. I don't mind math, but science is just a total bore and it has nothing to do with my endeavors. I hate having to fulfill 9 credits of science gen eds ugh. As for my BA, I only need to take a 3rd level of language since I took 4 years of Spanish in high school, so it's really not that bad. The Spanish 3 here is pretty easy, actually. Once I get that done, i'll never have to deal with a language class at PSU, thankfully.

I think for grad school one of the phd students I talked to here said that BS is good for schools who are looking for students who are particularly geared towards a certain program where having a more science background would help. If you get a BA, it doesn't mean your chances is automatically diminshed. But keep in mind that in order to keep yourself competitive, you will have to beef up your resume/cv with internships, jobs, TA positions, publications, etc (crucial for liberal arts majors especially) that are relevant to your academic/practical pursuits.